Liverpool player ratings: 2-1 West Brom, it can never be easy
By Tom Bogert
Liverpool defeated West Brom in the Premier League 2-1 through Mane and Coutinho goals. Player ratings.
It can never be easy for Liverpool, can it?
As late as the 70th minute, fans could’ve been disappointed it wasn’t more than a two goal cushion the Reds were sitting on. The game seemed won a long time ago, we wanted it to be emphatic.
Then, as West Brom do, attacked a set piece well. As Liverpool do, they defended it poorly, and all of a sudden it was 2-1 with time for heartbreak.
The heartbreak would’ve been more profound considering that Tottenham, Everton and Arsenal all dropped points before Liverpool even kicked off, lending Klopp’s men a brilliant opportunity to pick up ground/gain separation on their rivals, while putting the pressure on both Manchester clubs who play Sunday.
Liverpool struck first in the first half, a hugely important goal against a Tony Pulis side, as Roberto Firmino crossed to Sadio Mane who finished first time on the full volley. Not long after, a successful press led to a Philippe Coutinho goal, beating two defenders then fired near post.
In the first half, Liverpool held 73% possession and outshot West Brom 8-0.
Manager Jurgen Klopp: 8
Is this Liverpool’s strongest XI? Without Daniel Sturridge? It might be. And after Sturridge’s impotent performance against United, it was a simple decision to rotate Adam Lallana in for the striker.
The plan worked to perfection, as West Brom’s oafs in defense struggled with the incisive movement from the midfield and attack. Only qualm is that he didn’t bring Sturridge on when the game was in attempt to get him some form and completely end the game.